The annual OSA Summer Convention was held June 25-26 at the Oregon Garden Resort in Silverton, Oregon. The theme, “A Family Reunion,” celebrated OSA’s 50 years as an association. Many past presidents attended both the Tuesday reception and Wednesday banquet dinner, with both events designed to show our true appreciation for their service. The banquet dinner was served “family” style bringing a feeling of closeness and a true family feeling. The Grand Hall where the event was held was decorated with 50 years of memorabilia that included old seed bags, photographs, seed samples and more.
Jake Stockfleth recognized several companies or individuals with awards, including Scotts Co. for 50 years of membership, and Dennis Combs for 50 years of attendance at Summer Conventions. And Sharon Davidson was surprised by a touching tribute and Honorary Life Membership award.
It was not all work, however, as members took time out to golf, and tour the Oregon Gardens and Gordon House. The Past Presidents reception on Tuesday brought a special performance by Steve Tubbs and Bret Lucich, with some members joining in on instruments!
Banquet guests enjoyed live music and dancing with Portland group The Hereafters, after enduring a torrential thunderstorm that hit just as guests arrived for the silent auction.
Fundraising activities included a raffle, Texas Hold Em poker tournament, and silent and live auctions, garnered funds for the OSA Scholarship Program. Thank you to all those who donated items or funds, or participated in these activities.
Jake Stockfleth concluded his year as OSA President and passed the gavel to Phill Lindgren for the 2019-2020 term.
During the two-day conference, the following resolutions were passed:
Resolution: Motion made by Matt Herb to remove ASTA Trade Rules from the Oregon Seed Association bylaws. Seconded by Jeff Martin and the motion passed.
Resolution: Motion made by Matt Herb that OSA send a letter to all legislators thanking those who stood in support of rural Oregon and agriculture throughout the legislative session. Seconded by Keith Laxton. Amended motion passed by unanimous support.
Resolution: Scott Harer made a motion that OSA share data with ODA on Tall Fescue and Perennial Ryegrass only to use as they see fit. JP Olsen seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.
Resolution: Matt Herb made a motion to amend Scott Harer’s motion to add that in addition to OSA providing tall fescue and perennial ryegrass data to ODA, that the motion include that ODA will make a formal request to OGSBA to submit their non contracted carry-over plus acres on tall fescue and perennial ryegrass to ODA. Scott Harer seconded, and the motion passed with 25 in support and 1 opposed.
Resolution: Crystal Fricker made a motion that the scholarship committee have the authority to use what is in the account over $50,000 at their discretion. Terri Burr seconded, and the motion passed.
